Urges and requests the Legislature of Louisiana to support the "Greaux the Good" farmers market match program
Impact
The resolution affirms the importance of localizing agricultural profits, indicating that farmers can earn significantly more from direct sales compared to traditional market channels. Furthermore, it draws attention to concerning statistics regarding food insecurity and poor nutrition choices among Louisiana residents, positioning the 'Greaux the Good' program as a strategic initiative to combat these issues. By potentially increasing the number of shoppers at farmers markets, the program aims to stimulate local economic activity while addressing public health challenges related to inadequate fruit and vegetable consumption.
Summary
HCR57 is a House Concurrent Resolution that urges the Legislature of Louisiana to support the 'Greaux the Good' farmers market match program. This program aims to enhance the economic resilience of local farmers and increase produce consumption among Louisiana residents, especially those facing food insecurity. By providing financial support to create or expand market match programs at farmers markets, the resolution seeks to improve access to fresh fruits and vegetables for low-income consumers, particularly beneficiaries of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The resolution highlights the critical role of agriculture in Louisiana, noting its multi-billion dollar economic impact and the significance of direct-to-consumer sales for farmers.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HCR57 is predominantly positive, reflecting a bipartisan agreement on the need to support local agriculture and improve public health. The initiative is viewed favorably by legislators who recognize its dual benefits—enhancing the livelihoods of local farmers while simultaneously addressing food insecurity. Supporters of the resolution see it as a necessary investment in the community, promoting healthier eating habits and fostering a stronger agricultural economy.
Contention
While the resolution generally enjoys widespread support, points of contention may arise regarding the allocation of state funds to support the 'Greaux the Good' program. Critics may question the sufficiency of funding or the prioritization of agricultural initiatives over other pressing social issues. However, as the resolution is primarily an urging request, it serves as a call to action rather than a legislative mandate, thus allowing for discussions on funding and implementation details to continue in the legislative process.
Expresses support for Louisiana farmers in light of ongoing market fluctuations, staffing changes, and funding cuts to state and local departments at the federal level.
Commends and expresses support for Louisiana farmers for their work in providing healthy food options, sustaining local economies, and promoting agricultural resilience through their dedication and innovation
Urging The National Institute Of Food And Agriculture Of The United States Department Of Agriculture To Issue Additional Funding For The Gus Schumacher Nutrition Incentive Program To Provide Matching Funds For The Expansion Of The State Double Up Food Bucks Program To All Approved Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Retail Outlets Throughout The State.
Urging The National Institute Of Food And Agriculture Of The United States Department Of Agriculture To Issue Additional Funding For The Gus Schumacher Nutrition Incentive Program To Provide Matching Funds For The Expansion Of The State Double Up Food Bucks Program To All Approved Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Retail Outlets Throughout The State.
Urging The National Institute Of Food And Agriculture Of The United States Department Of Agriculture To Issue Additional Funding For The Gus Schumacher Nutrition Incentive Program To Provide Matching Funds For The Expansion Of The State Double Up Food Bucks Program To All Approved Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Retail Outlets Throughout The State.
Urging The National Institute Of Food And Agriculture Of The United States Department Of Agriculture To Issue Additional Funding For The Gus Schumacher Nutrition Incentive Program To Provide Matching Funds For The Expansion Of The State Double Up Food Bucks Program To All Approved Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Retail Outlets Throughout The State.
Memorializes the United States Congress and the United States Department of Agriculture to grant Louisiana a waiver to remove unhealthy foods from the list of approved foods that may be purchased with Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits
Requests that the Bd. of Regents and the State Bd. of Elementary and Secondary Education, with the Taylor Foundation, La. Office of Student Financial Assistance, public postsecondary education management boards, and certain others, study certain issues relative to TOPS
Requests the Louisiana Workforce Commission and the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs to study employment practices and professional licensing requirements to benefit veterans in the workforce
Creates a task force to study meaningful oversight of the professional healthcare licensing boards statutorily created within the Department of Health and Hospitals.